The 108 names known
as the Ashtottara Shatanamavali are said to be extremely auspicious to chant.
People recite Ganapathi's 108 names and perform Pooja to gain the blessings of
this Supreme God. This brass
lamp with 108 or more wicks is also known as an
Ashtottara Deepam or 108-wick lamp. It is considered auspicious to light this
lamp while singing Lord Ganesha's Ashtottara Shatanamavali. Each light cluster
in this lamp has a sacred picture
of Lord Ganesha, directing the warmth of
the lamp straight to the almighty. Columnar lights with a well-carved stem and
hanging lamps from the branches form the fundamental structure.
A Luminary of Divine Blessings: The Ganesha Multi-Tiered Lamp
This magnificent brass lamp, handcrafted in the rich artistic tradition of South India, is more than just a source of light; it is a powerful symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and divine protection. Standing at an impressive 38 inches tall, its intricate design and the presence of twenty-two Ganesha idols evoke a sense of reverence and spiritual grandeur. Each Ganesha, the Remover of Obstacles and the patron of new beginnings, is exquisitely rendered, signifying blessings for every aspect of life.
The lamp features multiple tiers, adorned with numerous small diyas (oil lamps). When lit, these lamps cast a warm, dancing glow, creating an atmosphere of serenity and devotion. The radiant brass, polished to a lustrous finish, reflects the light beautifully, amplifying its spiritual and aesthetic impact. This lamp is designed to be a centerpiece in any sacred space, be it a home altar, a temple, or a meditation room. Its sheer presence imbues the surroundings with a palpable aura of sanctity and good fortune.
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Echoes of Mythology and Tradition
The use of lamps, particularly in Hinduism, is deeply rooted in ancient traditions and mythology. The diya symbolizes knowledge dispelling ignorance, light overcoming darkness, and life triumphing over death. The act of lighting a lamp is a prayer, an offering, and a ritualistic expression of gratitude. Ganesha, the elephant-headed deity, is universally revered as the god of wisdom, intellect, and good fortune. He is invoked at the beginning of any significant undertaking to ensure its success. By adorning this lamp with multiple Ganesha idols, this piece embodies a profound aspiration for continuous blessings and the removal of all impediments on one's life path. The elaborate craftsmanship, reminiscent of the intricate work found in ancient South Indian temples, connects this lamp to centuries of artisanal heritage and spiritual devotion.
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An Emblem of Grandeur and Well-being
This substantial lamp is a testament to the skill and dedication of South Indian artisans. The weight and quality of the brass speak to its durability and lasting value, ensuring it can be a cherished heirloom passed down through generations. Its imposing size makes it a commanding presence, drawing the eye and inspiring contemplation. Imagine the warm, flickering light illuminating your home during festivals like Diwali, the festival of lights, or any special occasion. The multiple tiers, each holding its own set of lamps and miniature Ganesha figures, create a cascading effect of light and devotion. This lamp is not merely decorative; it is an embodiment of the aspiration for a life filled with joy, success, and divine favor. It serves as a constant reminder to approach life with wisdom, courage, and an optimistic spirit, much like the beloved deity it so prominently features.
The Power of Light: Understanding the Role of Oil Lamps in
Hinduism
Hinduism is a boon to human society for it guides everyone to
follow their Dharma and rise above the material concept of life.
Hinduism is also known as “Sanatan Dharma”. These are Sanskrit
terms in which Sanatan means “eternal” and Dharma means “Intrinsic
nature or occupation”. Thus it deals with the intrinsic nature or
the real identity of the living entities; that which can never be
taken away from them. The principles of Hinduism are given in the
Vedic literature or scriptures that are considered “Apaurusheya”;
they have not been written by any ordinary person but have been
compiled by Vyasadev, the literary incarnation of the Supreme Lord
Krishna. The word “Veda” means complete knowledge, both material
and spiritual. The knowledge in Vedic literature is so vast and
precise that if one looks carefully, he will notice that nothing
is sentimental or imaginary but is based on facts and truth. There
is a clear description and information about the identity of all
living beings, the nature of the Absolute Truth, the reason for
the existence of this world, the information about the world
beyond this universe, and the relationship between us and God, the
Absolute Truth.

Why do we light a lamp?
There are many rituals recommended in the Vedas for engaging our
body and mind in the service of God. One of them is the lighting
of ghee or oil lamps before the deity. According to the Vedic
injunctions, all auspicious functions begin with lighting a
lamp. It has a great spiritual significance. It is believed that
the light of the lamp symbolizes “knowledge”, the wick
symbolizes the false ego of the living entity, and ghee
(clarified butter) or oil symbolizes all the negative tendencies
(Anarthas) accumulated in the heart such as greed, lust, anger,
and envy. When the lamp is lit by spiritual knowledge, all the
Anarthas are exhausted, and the false ego, which is the root
cause of conditional life, is also burnt. Therefore, the lamp is
lit before the Lord as a sacrifice of our false ego in His
service. Just as the light of the lamp dissipates all darkness,
similarly, the light of knowledge dissipates ignorance of the
Jivas and enables us to realize our real identity and purpose of
life.
Why only an oil or ghee lamp?
One may question why only an oil lamp is lit before the Lord and
why not an artificial light source. This may sound logical but
lighting a lamp has a further spiritual significance. The flame
of the light in a lamp always burns upwards indicating that by
cultivating spiritual knowledge, one achieves the highest
perfection of life and is always victorious. Also, a traditional
lamp is the purest form of offering.

In almost every house of a follower of Sanatan Dharma, an oil or
ghee lamp is lit before the altar of the Lord or before the Tulsi
plant. Some people light it at dawn, some at dusk, and some people
prefer to light it at dawn and dusk. Either ghee or sesame oil can
be used to burn the wick. Vaishnavas (devotees of Lord Vishnu or
Krishna) especially light a ghee lamp every day in the month of
Kartik to offer their love and devotion to the Lord.
